My Best of Dallas 2012

As 2012 nears its end, I thought I’d take some time to reflect upon the things I most appreciate about Dallas — a personal ‘best of’ list if you will. Bear in mind, my world is very small these days with a 2 year old, a wife, and a day job, so my list might seem pretty modest compared to yours.

Liberty Burger

Locally owned Liberty Burger has truly taken the burger to new heights. Their beef patty is a blend of fresh tenderloin, brisket, and chuck. The meats — they offer bison, lamb, turkey, and chicken burger options too — are as freshly sourced as possible, and the bread is supplied by a local bakery. Well-designed salad options (three of them) are also available if you choose to go healthy or want roughage to push your burger through. Wash it all down with a shake or float (or really any beverage of your choosing). Liberty Burger is tops in my book.

The Kessler Theater

If you are not impressed with any of the upcoming shows at The Kessler (check out their website at http://thekessler.org/) then we need to talk about something other than music, my friend. This intimate live music venue in Oak Cliff attracts both great musicians and serious music fans.

Klyde Warren Park

I’m excited about the positive effect this park is having toward the revitalization of downtown Dallas, especially the Arts District. Restaurants are coming to the area, and it appears as though the predicted gap bridging between the Arts District and Uptown has become reality. McKinney Avenue trolley ridership is up significantly this year compared to last, and an extension to the trolley system that goes through downtown via Olive Street will open earlier than originally planned.

KNON 89.3 FM

KNON’s existence brings comfort to my day and hope whenever I’m feeling down about Dallas. This listener-supported station, broadcasting since 1983, is home to the most eclectic mix of music you could possibly imagine. Its DJs are strictly volunteer and borrow largely from their personal music collections. Lately I’ve been tuning in during my morning commute to catch the Magic Time Warp (with the inimitable Ranger Rita) for Fifties oldies or the KNON Blend Show for just about anything. Texas Renegade Radio often accompanies me home at night, and then there’s Lone Star Dead and North Texas Polka Radio on the weekend and lots and lots of good music in between. If progressive politics is your thing, be sure to tune in to Democracy Now and Workers Beat.

Perot Museum of Nature and Science

Another exciting 2012 Dallas debut, the Perot Museum’s ultimate purpose is to inspire future generations of scientists; however, the unique architecture and exceptional exhibits are sure to affect anyone. I can’t say any more about the museum because I haven’t been there yet, but I will say this: I’m glad there are people out there who still think science matters, and I’m really proud of Dallas for offering this gift to the world.

Leo enjoys writing, blogging and spending time with his family. He holds a B.S. in Communications (R-T-F) from the University of Texas at Austin and an underutilized MBA from the University of North Texas.

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Zen Bistro and Dessert Bar located in Deep Ellum is not just about cupcakes and cakeballs, although those are really good. They also have a menu of Filipino tapas and now this new Filipino spiced Tocino burger topped with an egg. They just started selling this burger lats Saturday and our lucky bellies sampled the first. Go get.